Today I am beginning my journey in reading the coveted book “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. So far everyone that I have heard reference this book has had nothing but great things to say about, even deeming it as “life changing”. Look forward to me sharing a few things I learn along the way.
Thanks Fam for lending my the book, the next book is on me!
-LD-
If you just so happen to follow my twitter then you probably remember a couple of weeks ago when I had the opportunity to visit the Royal Elastics showroom/office. I never really did share my time spent there, but to sum it all up, it was very inspiring learning their history from where they started to witnessing how far they have come and even where they are going.
I was originally exposed to Royal Elastics back 2005 while working my 1st retail job (yes it’s been more than one lol) where we sold their L.A.M.B by Royal Elastics collection (Gwen Stefani’s brand) which was a huge success. Then fast forward two years later when I was working my 2nd retail job where we sold their collaborative shoe collection with the Andy Warhol Factory (I owned the “Fragile” pair). However, somewhere along the way, as I transitioned from streetwear to a more conservative approach to style, Royal Elastics dropped off my radar. Until about 6 months ago when my girlfriend met the owner (Jon Bondoc) at J.Crew. She stopped him in the store after noticing his shoes and inquired about them because she thought they looked like something I would like; he told her that they were an unreleased pair from his company Royal Elastics…come to find out, the shoes he was wearing that day are my favorite style from their current collection (my girlfriend was right after all)!
Personally, I love how Royal Elastics are now “de-constructing” some of the classic shoe silhouettes (we are all too familiar with) and making them their own by simply adding their signature “elastic lacing system” (which makes it easy to slip-on/off) while still incorporating some design elements like including metal toggles to the laces as well. And in my humble opinion, the Brother Basil is a good alternative for the ubiquitous Clae and Generic Surplus (though I love both brands) casual-sneakers because they too can be worn with every thing but at the same time they bring something new to the table. The company that I was first introduced to in 2005 has definitely evolved into a brand that offers something for facet of fashion consumers who seek quality and functional pieces.
Brother Roland
Here is a sneak peak (literally) of what is to come (Spring ’11) from Royal Elastics in the near future.
-LD-
I almost can’t remember the last shoe release I was really excited about, but since May (when I was first exposed to the shoe) the Clarks Originals Desert Mali Boot has been on my mind (or calendar for this matter). And now that the time is finally approaching for them to be officially released in the states (yes, of course they came out in Europe first) I have already started creating ensembles (plural) in my head especially for these perfectly crafted masterpieces. We are all familiar with the classic desert boot style, well this is the higher-cut version that was originally introduced in 1967, and will be making it’s return this Fall/Winter season.
Clarks Originals Desert Mali Boot: Wolf Suede (L), Brown Suede (R)
I have a feeling that my “compulsive side” (#thingsweshouldntconfess) will kick in and I will mysteriously end up with multiple pairs, but that’s ok because “they are essential pieces”…right?
-LD-
Man…I really do love my Blackberry (bold 9700), but here lately the idea of getting an iPhone has been constantly on my mind. I know, I know…to all of my “Blackberry lovers” say what you want, but let’s be honest for just 2 seconds- you know this very same thought has appeared in your mind at least once before. And to be even more honest with you, my reasoning for considering an iPhone really has nothing to do with the phone itself (although it doesn’t hurt to have so many great features in one device), but I am more so fascinated with all of the products (specifically the accessories) out to accommodate this coveted device. Seriously…have you ever seen a purchase-worthy Blackberry case/sleeve, but I know you have seen plenty made for the iPhone; first it was L-R-G (yes the streetwear brand), then it was Jack Spade, then it was MS&Co., and now it is Apolis Activism (the reason for this whole post). Just recent they released their “Transit Issue Smartphone Wallet”, which in my humble opinion is one of the best designs i’ve seen thus far; not only is the case an innovative design but it is also functional relieving a lot of bulk in your pockets. Great craftsmanship gentlemen (Founders: Shea and Raan Parton)!
Garment Content: Provides Optimal Protection for your phone with billfold slots that will hold you cash and cards. Your phone remains completely functional while in the case and you are able to quickly remove your phone the natural leather with an auto lift pull-tab. Each piece is embossed on the inside and backside with Apolis branding.
Come December (Christmas) I may just have to switch teams. What do you think?
For those of you who just so happen to be following me on twitter or/and is a fan of the facebook page then you have seen the new banners I created for the site, for those of you who haven’t check them out below…and join my “social networks” as well!
Camera Used: Canon Rebel T1i
Just in case you were wondering about the footwear…they are Timberland Boot Co. (Counterpane).
-LD-
Yes… this is another one of those irrelevant post. You should expect at least two of these a week lol. Now that the *disclaimer* is out of the way…check out this really dope visual from Rob Roy. I’m glad he decided to make a visual for this song…it was by far my favorite song off of his debut album “King Warrior Magician Lover“. If you are not already up on him…it’s not too late, click here, then “thank me later” (no Drake)!
-LD-
The weather here in Los Angeles these past two weeks is all of the indication needed to know that fall is officially here, and that winter is closely approaching. Personally, I love the F/W season (except the cold temperature) because of all of the clothing options it offers within your wardrobe (although I am that crazy guy who already layers throughout the year smh!). Over the weekend, I was able to do some more shopping for my “Fall Essentials” and the style guide created below is the product of all of the greatness I saw.
*click on image to enlarge*
Usually when I shop, the goal in mind is to always find timeless-essential pieces that will still be relevant next year (and the year after that for this matter). My goal was achieved in this whole selection; I love how none of the items are branded, but still leave lasting impressions through their precision in design. My personal favorites have to be the Oliver Spencer Toggle Peasant Jacket (which is a waxed cotton jacket that has a detachable hood, red plaid lining and the pockets are faced with beige cord), the Jack Spade Wool Felt Bag (a bag that nicely mixes traditional menswear materials with utilitarian design to create styles that can be worn casually or formally), and the Seavees 7 Eye Trai Boots (made with a natural rubber which is softer and more elastic resulting in superior cushioning, reduced weight, increased flexibility, and maximum slip resistance). I will definitely be seen this FW with these three.
-LD-
The other night (Friday) I had the pleasure to attend the grand opening of the Apartment 3 & Unique LA boutique at H.D. Buttercup. Michael Warren was one of the guest designers debuting his collection. The event started at 8pm, I arrived a little bit before 9pm, and by time I was officially in the door, his neckwear was completely sold out; I say all of that to say that I failed to get any pictures of his product…but don’t worry, I feel an Essential Man exclusive coming soon! Good job Mike!
*Disclaimer* You will see a lot of this (↑↓) denim jacket and boots on this blog…but hey, what can I say, they are essential pieces. Also, curretly I am committed to this pair of denim until I discover a new relationship (denim project) to take on. I’ve been wearing them off and on for about 7 months and they are finally starting to fade well (peep the wallet imprint in the front (↑)).
The Essential Man: H.D. Buttercup (Los Angeles, CA)
Spectacles- Tom Ford (Jack)-Tortoise
Shirt- GAP Chambray Shirt Tie- Marc Jacobs
Jacket- Gant Rugger Jean Jacket Pants- RRL Slim-Bootcut Raw Denim
Footwear- Timberland Boot Co. Counterpane
-LD-
No intro needed.
-LD-
I can honestly say that on a day-to-day basis, people usually do not inspire what I wear…but for some reason yesterday my inspiration was Marvin Gaye; lol yeah I know that may be an odd reference to some people but it made sense to me. Do you remember the picture I posted of him a couple of days ago, well it’s that particular outfit that I had in mind (or his beanie to be EXACT). Anywho, my girlfriend helped me capture the moment.
Inspiration.
My Interpretation.
Beanie- Urban Outfitters Spectacles- Tom Ford (Jack)- Black
Shirt- GAP Chambray Shirt Jacket- Gant Rugger Jean Jacket
I know what you’re thinking, but I only said “inspired”…I hope you weren’t expecting to see a recreation copy of what Marvin was wearing. But just in case you were wondering I did coin that beanie as “the marvin”. Please share some of your inspirations with me as well!
-LD-
